Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes on record, struck Jamaica in late October, resulting in widespread destruction across western Jamaica, leaving many families without adequate shelter. In response, the West Jamaica Conference recently partnered with the Nehemiah Skilled Workers, a 13-member team from the Belize Union Mission operating under the VividFaith network of the General Conference, to rebuild homes damaged by the hurricane. Through this collaboration, seven homes were rebuilt from the ground up and 8 were repaired. The effort was further supported by members of the Gideon Rescue Company, who assisted with initial cleanup activities across the territory.
Members of the Nehemiah Skilled Workers from the Belize Union Mission and the Gideon Rescue Company join WJC President, Pastor Glen Samuels for a moment of recognition following the completion of the rebuilding project. :: Photo credit: Vernal Comrie
A fraction of the building materials procured by the Conference was used for the project. Approximately JMD $2.5 million in zinc sheets and over JMD $500,000 in lumber and plywood were purchased to ensure that repairs and new construction could move forward without delay.
In addition to construction, the outreach extended to practical community care, as a barber who was part of the team provided free haircuts to 60 residents while also assisting on building sites.
Motivated by a deep commitment to service, the team’s leader, Pastor David Campbell, reflected on the experience and the strength that sustained their work.
“God has been good to us and has worked on our behalf,” said Pastor Campbell. “We came with a mind to work and remained committed to the task. While many saw the project as a challenge, God gave us the strength to accomplish all that we did. Everything we undertook was for the glory of God.”
Skilled volunteers work together to frame and reinforce structural componenets of a home as part of the ongoing post-hurricane rebuilding efforts across western Jamaica. :: Photo credit: Vernal Comrie
In some communities, these were the first homes to be fully restored. Nickiesha Bernard-Richards, a resident of Seaford Town, Westmoreland, was among the recipients.
“I was the first person in my community to receive a home,” she said. “I want to thank the team from Belize and the Conference. I am very grateful.”
West Jamaica Conference President, Pastor Glen O. Samuels noted the depth of sacrifice involved in the team’s work across the territory.
“They have given themselves to serving humanity, and West Jamaica has been the beneficiary of this kind of selfless sacrifice.”
He added that the impact of their service extended beyond physical repairs. “The sacrifice of this team is very meaningful to us. I want to thank God for blessing you with a heart and a mind to give and to work.”
A recipient (centre) stands alongside the volunteers from Belize and North America at the constuction site of her new home, being rebuilt following damage from Hurricane Melissa. :: Photo credit: Vernal Comrie
As recovery efforts continue across the region, the Conference has indicated that similar partnerships will remain central to its disaster response strategy.
To learn about our giving options and how you can help support our mission of Rebuilding the West, visit give.westjamaica.org.